District News

<img src="/images/192f6d74-ca69-5c53-870e-9ca4175cddb0?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" alt="" width="inherit" height="inherit"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Community members are also invited to follow along during live tweets of regular Board meetings using the hashtag #LDSBmtg.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>

<img src="/images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242" srcset="/thumbnails/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 450w, /images/f4ad85ed-1dca-5d84-9470-922a6097d6c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span>A version of&nbsp;<a href="https://secure.smore.com/n/b9dtp">this message is available to translate into additional languages.</a></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Dear Families,</span></span></p> <p><span><span>It is hard to believe we are approaching the end of May and just over 5 weeks of the 2023-24 school year remain. I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather as we quickly move through the spring. We have some updates that we would like to share with you:<br> <br> <br> <span><strong>PPM 128 – Cell Phone Usage and Vaping on School Property</strong></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Back in April, the Ministry of Education shared with school boards an important update to <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128">Policy/Program 128: The Provincial Code of Conduct and School Boards Code of Conduct</a> regarding the restricting/limiting cellphones and vapes in schools. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>It should be noted that cellphone usage has always been restricted in Limestone classrooms to only being used with the classroom educator’s permission. In addition, vaping has never been allowed in schools nor on school property. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Leading up to September 2024, more information will become available and will be shared with families, including adjusted Board policies regarding cell phone usage, vaping on school property, and strengthened enforcement. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>We will be working with public health to share more information related to the mental health impact of excessive use of social media applications and the physical health implications of vaping. </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>&nbsp;</span></b></span></p> <p><span><b><span>AccessAbility Week - May 27-31, 2024</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>Limestone is celebrating <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/campaigns/national-accessability-week/toolkit.html">National AccessAbility Week</a> from May 27 to 31, culminating in the <a href="https://redshirtday.org/">Red Shirt Day of Action for Accessibility and Inclusion</a>. Limestone District School Board (LDSB) will support Red Shirt Day of Action on May 29, 2024. Students are encouraged to wear red to support Canadians living with disabilities on that date.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>This week also allows us to draw attention to the local Inclusive Play Project. This group is raising awareness and funds to support the development of a fully inclusive playground in the Kingston area. To learn more and to find out how you can get involved, please visit the <a href="https://inclusiveplayproject.com/">Inclusive Play Project website</a>.</span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>&nbsp;</span></b></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Prohibiting the Use of the N-Word</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>LDSB has developed <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/1293a441-3b6f-59e4-bf7e-e4aada882530?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" target="_blank"> <span>a document for staff and students that addresses the prohibiting of slurs and epithets, with a particular focus on the N-word</span> </a>. Slurs and epithets are hurtful words or names used to discriminate, which can cause harm and create unwelcoming environments for students, staff, and our school communities, as well as violate the <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90h19">Ontario Human Rights Code</a>.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Recognizing that all racial slurs cause harm and impact people, <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/1293a441-3b6f-59e4-bf7e-e4aada882530?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" target="_blank"> <span>this document</span> </a>, developed in consultation with LDSB racialized students, staff affinity groups, and the Umoja Black Community Group, is specifically addressing the use of the N-word and other slurs and epithets that target Black people for many reasons included within the document. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>To read the document and learn more, please visit <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/1293a441-3b6f-59e4-bf7e-e4aada882530?fingerprint=ppb20251217013147" target="_blank"> <span>Prohibiting the Use of the N-Word</span> </a>, and watch the <a href="https://youtu.be/7woTZZsyJUw">accompanying video</a>. It should be noted that based on the 2020 Student Equity Census and data collected through the LDSB Human Rights Complaint submissions, anti-Black racism continues to be an issue in area schools and the broader community. No person (student, families, or staff) should have to be exposed to racist comments in schools or in the community. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>By addressing the use of such language within our learning and working environments, we create spaces that empower individuals, promote equity, and celebrate diversity. In addition, it should be noted that based on the Ontario Human Rights Code, provincial policies, and the Education Act, acts and expressions of hate based on the protected grounds in the Ontario Human Rights Code are subject to significant consequences for perpetrators. </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span>&nbsp;</span></b></span></p> <p><span><b><span>Pride 2024</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>The Limestone Education Centre, and all schools across our district, are recognizing Pride Month in KFL&amp;A by flying the Progressive Pride Flag for the month of June. In addition, Limestone will be participating in both the Greater Napanee Pride Parade on June 1, 2024, as well as the Kingston Pride Parade on June 15, 2024. Staff, students, and families are all welcome to join Limestone in one or both parades.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Limestone is committed to ensuring everyone sees themselves in Limestone by feeling safe with a strong sense of belonging and connection, and these are just two ways we are demonstrating that support. In our schools, we do not tell students who they should be, but welcome them as they are. We do this by focusing on their academic learning and fostering feelings of belonging as expected in the Ontario curriculum and the Ontario Human Rights Code.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>In the past, we have had some questions about flag protocol during the month of June and throughout the school year. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/flag-canada-etiquette/about.html">Government of Canada</a>&nbsp;indicates that the manner in which the Canadian flag is displayed in Canada is not governed by legislation. The rules applied by the government are not mandatory for individuals or organizations, they simply serve as guidelines. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>The board has confirmed with Heritage Canada that where schools or education centres only have one mast/flagpole, it is acceptable to fly the&nbsp;Progress&nbsp;Pride flag beneath the Canadian flag.&nbsp;Showing our support for the&nbsp;2SLGBTQ+ community does&nbsp;not diminish our respect for&nbsp;the&nbsp;Nation’s flag, it just makes it clear that all members of that community are welcome in Limestone schools. Flying the Progress Pride flag is about symbolizing the inclusive culture within Limestone. As a publicly funded institution, like all school boards in Ontario, we have a legal and moral obligation to be welcoming to all and try to ensure everyone sees themselves in Limestone. </span></span></p> <p><span><span>Harassment, discrimination, and hate have no place in Limestone schools. As a school board, we are committed to providing all students, staff, and families with a positive school community environment.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>As a reminder, the LDSB has the <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0J0faTRewWA6Pau">Student Human Rights Incidents and Complaints tool</a> available to students and families to report any incidents or complaints.</span></span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><b><span>Transportation for the 2024-2025 School Year</span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>If your student currently has school bus transportation and there is no change to their school or address in September, families do not need to take any action nor reapply for transportation through Tri-Board Student Transportation. Current school bus transportation will remain in place unless they are contacted directly by Tri-Board.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>However, if your student is attending school for the first time in 2024-2025, is changing schools, or needs to change school bus pick-up/drop-off locations, then<b> families will need to apply for transportation by August 11, 2024</b>, to ensure that transportation is in place for the first day of school in September. For full details, please visit the <a href="https://triboard.ca/deadline24-25/">Tri-Board website</a>.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>I wish all Limestone students and families an enjoyable last few weeks of the 2023-2024 school year. I know that many activities and celebrations will be occurring in schools over the next few weeks for people to participate and enjoy.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>All the very best,</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Krishna Burra</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Director of Education</span> </span></p>

<img src="/images/e61a0df0-e3a8-5259-9b1d-90b8936eb8fb?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" alt="" width="inherit" height="inherit" style="float:right"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board is seeking new members for the Technical Advisory Group for the next phase of Student Census data collection.&nbsp;The purpose of the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) is to give advice, opinions, and make&nbsp;recommendations in the design of methods for data collection, analysis, and the representation of results. Most importantly, TAG ensures that multiple and diverse perspectives are applied to the analysis of Student Census data to minimize the risk of bias.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recruitment:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The committee will be formed by seeking expressions of continued interest from current members and new expressions of interest from individuals who possess the required lived&nbsp;experience and research skill set. Limestone staff will be notified by email of the opportunity to join TAG. The opportunity will also be posted to the LDSB website and advertised on LDSB’s social media channels New interested parties can express their&nbsp;interest using the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2aXfk1Af78UcseO" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TAG Expression of Interest Form</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Printable copies of the form are also available&nbsp;</span><a href="https://limestoneschools-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/clostlamberte_limestone_on_ca/EUjk3z0ydglFjxSb2QBRtREBeMUgAtZZe3fZhGEnW2vjUA?e=DlGsax" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">here</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. All submissions must be received by 4:00 p.m. on June 3, 2024.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It is important to read the&nbsp;</strong></b><a href="/documents/3b3da70a-68e5-55e0-b8ec-80d58d9bbb44?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" target="_blank" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> TAG Terms of Reference </span></a><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;before you apply.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Selection:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Expressions of interest will be reviewed by the core Census Team (Limestone Research Team, Equity Consultant, Superintendent);&nbsp;the Vice Principal of Indigenous Education; and the Human Rights and</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Equity Officer. The goal is to create a committee that is as equitable and intersectional as possible from the applications received. Interested parties are invited to share the ways in which they are willing and able to share their lived experiences alongside their research and/or data experience.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">TAG Membership Drive: Proposed Timeline</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please note, the timeline subject to change</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Spring 2024</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Recruitment of new TAG Members May 6 to June 3, 2024</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Early June: Review applications</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mid- to Late-June: Confirm members</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></p>

<img src="/images/dd4a7f12-be45-51e3-83f2-fd0964ed0aac?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" srcset="/thumbnails/dd4a7f12-be45-51e3-83f2-fd0964ed0aac?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036 450w, /images/dd4a7f12-be45-51e3-83f2-fd0964ed0aac?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span><span>A version of this message is <a href="https://www.smore.com/n/zu6tb" title="Message from the Ministry of Education available for translation into multiple languages">available to be translated into multiple languages.&nbsp;</a><br> <br> Over the weekend, the Ministry of Education shared with us an important update to <b>Policy/Program 128: The Provincial Code of Conduct and School Boards Code of Conduct </b>regarding restricting/limiting cellphones and vapes in schools.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Please take a moment to review <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/9afdc591-9051-54e1-8f63-8a8c4b2fc5b0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014435" target="_blank"> <span>the full letter from Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education outlining the updates.</span> </a> </span></span></p> <p><span><span>The changes announced in the update will be implemented in all schools starting Fall 2024. Limestone staff will work with students and families to implement these changes as we have with previous announcements and changes in recent years.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your school Administrator. </span></span></p>

<img src="/images/7086ba24-968c-56c1-b598-1660767dc9c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043" srcset="/thumbnails/7086ba24-968c-56c1-b598-1660767dc9c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043 450w, /images/7086ba24-968c-56c1-b598-1660767dc9c3?fingerprint=ppb20251217014043 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><br><br><iframe src="https://www.smore.com/n/97hab?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe>

<img src="/images/224626d0-08de-5de1-98ac-ddb4e8352b51?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" srcset="/thumbnails/224626d0-08de-5de1-98ac-ddb4e8352b51?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 450w, /images/224626d0-08de-5de1-98ac-ddb4e8352b51?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><b><span><span>A version of <a href="https://www.smore.com/n/4780q" title="Message from the Director - April 4, 2024 ">this message is available to translate into additional languages</a>.&nbsp;<br> </span></span></b></p> <p><span><span>Dear Families,</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Happy Spring! I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather, even if it is a little unpredictable. With April upon us, I wanted to provide you with a couple of important updates:</span></span></p> <p><span><b><span><span>Reminder – P.A. Day: Monday, April 8, 2024</span></span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>A reminder to families that Monday, April 8, is a Professional Activity (P.A.) Day in Limestone. Schools are closed and there are no classes for students. <br> </span></span></p> <p><span><b><span><span>Solar Eclipse Safety</span></span></b></span></p> <p><span><span>A very exciting and rare solar event is taking place on Monday, April 8 in the Kingston area.&nbsp;This type of solar event only occurs every few hundred years. We are expected to be in a solar eclipse between 2:09 p.m. and 4:34 p.m., with the peak of totality (where the sun appears to be completely covered by the moon for a short period of time) happening at approximately 3:22 p.m., and ending at approximately 3:25 p.m.&nbsp;</span></span></p> <p><span><span>There are safety precautions everyone should exercise to ensure they safely enjoy this solar event.&nbsp; It is dangerous to look directly at the sun at any time, and especially during an eclipse. KFL&amp;A Public Health and Queen’s University have provided information on how to view the eclipse safely and properly protect your eyes:</span></span></p> <ul> <li><span><span>Do not look directly at the eclipse at any time without proper protection.<br> <br> </span></span></li> <li><span><span>If you want to look at the eclipse, you must use approved solar eclipse viewers that meet international standards ISO 12312-2.<br> <br> </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Queen’s University is distributing solar eclipse glasses to the Kingston community through our schools (LDSB students will receive a pair at school this week), as well as the Kingston Frontenac Public Libraries at no cost.<br> <br> </span></span></li> <li><span><span>Regular sunglasses, even those with a very dark tint, will not protect your eyes.<br> <br> </span></span></li> <li><span><span>It is not safe to view the eclipse through a camera or phone lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device.<br> <br> </span></span></li> <li><span><span><span>When to wear eclipse glasses:</span> </span></span> <ul> <li><span><span>During the solar eclipse, only look directly at the sun if you are wearing certified solar eclipse glasses.<br> <br> </span></span><span></span></li> <li><span><span>Totality is when the sun is totally eclipsed by the moon, which lasts only a few minutes (approximately 3:22 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.). During totality, it is safe to look in the direction of the sun with the naked eye. If you are using certified eclipse glasses or viewers and are in the path of totality, it is safe to take your glasses off and observe totality when you can no longer see any part of the sun through your glasses. There will be a few minutes of darkness.<br> </span></span><span><br> <span></span></span></li> <li><span><span>When any part of the sun becomes visible after totality, you must put your glasses back on or look away. Keep glasses on, or remain looking away, for the remainder of the eclipse (as the moon moves past the sun).</span></span></li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p><span><span>Enjoy the rest of your week, and the weekend when it arrives.</span></span></p> <p><span><span>Thank you,</span></span></p> <p><span><span> <span>Krishna Burra</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span>Director of Education</span></span></p>

<img src="/images/adda7800-866f-5fb0-b59e-34a3e2134ce2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623" srcset="/thumbnails/adda7800-866f-5fb0-b59e-34a3e2134ce2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 450w, /images/adda7800-866f-5fb0-b59e-34a3e2134ce2?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <p><span>In 2023, The Ministry of Education released a Student Achievement Plan Framework, which aligns with the regulated provincial priorities (</span>O. Reg. 224/23). The Framework sets out goals and performance indicators for school boards to monitor student achievement, develop action plans, and measure their progress in improving student outcomes. </p> <p><a class="editor-link" href="/documents/de2159a3-5909-54b5-80e2-343ccac7a8e6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" target="_blank"> <span>Limestone District School Board’s Student Achievement Plan</span> </a> has been developed to include the mandatory provincial priorities and goals: Achievement of Learning Outcomes in Core Academic Skills, Preparation of Students for Future Success, and Student Engagement and Well-Being. </p> <p>A <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/8bbe9a12-4cff-5870-ba08-7918d5f77baf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014301" target="_blank"> <span>two page summary version&nbsp;Limestone DSB’s Student Achievement Plan</span> </a>&nbsp;is also available to assist in the viewing the data that is in the plan. </p>

<img src="/images/185f88e8-9c01-57ac-87a0-5efdc802c894?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228" srcset="/thumbnails/185f88e8-9c01-57ac-87a0-5efdc802c894?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 450w, /images/185f88e8-9c01-57ac-87a0-5efdc802c894?fingerprint=ppb20251217013228 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><span>The Limestone District School Board&nbsp;is seeking feedback on the development of its 2024-2025 Budget.&nbsp; <br> <br> We invite parents/guardians, students, staff and community members to participate&nbsp;in a brief survey to identify priorities for the cost-effective, successful, and equitable use of the board's finite financial resources.&nbsp;<br> <br> This information will assist the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2024-2025.<br> <br> Please take a few minutes to share your feedback by participating<span><span> in the survey, please </span><span>click </span></span><span><span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07fKtwRC8NbasUm" target="_blank" title="Link to 2024-25 Budget Survey.">this </a></span></span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07fKtwRC8NbasUm" target="_blank" title="Link to 2024-25 Budget Survey."><span><span>Budget Survey </span><span>link</span></span><span>.</span></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<span>The survey is open from March 7 until March 28, 2024.&nbsp;The survey is voluntary and anonymous. All responses remain confidential.</span><br> <br> The current school year budget, which will form the basis for the 2024-2025 budget, can be viewed at <a class="editor-link" href="/documents/4a950daa-b9de-57af-8f2b-6019c0577218?fingerprint=ppb20251217013714" target="_blank"> <span>2023-2024 LDSB Budget.</span> </a><br> <br> <br> <br> Information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 17, 2023.<br> <br> We thank our LDSB communities, in advance, for taking the time to participate in the budget process. Your feedback is appreciated.<br> <br> For more information, please contact:<br> <a href="mailto:mailto:burnsdan@limestone.on.ca?subject=mailto:burnsdan@limestone.on.ca">Danielle Burns</a>, Administrative Assistant&nbsp;to Craig Young, Superintendent of Business Services &amp; Treasurer&nbsp;<br> 613-544-6920 ext. 31338<br> </span> </span></span> <div></div><span><span> <br> </span></span>

<img src="/images/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" srcset="/thumbnails/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 450w, /images/08adef0a-9a9d-5ac1-a89f-49ed9e4603a6?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"> <div> <p><span><span>For a version of this message to translate into </span><span>additional</span><span> languages, please</span><span> </span></span><a href="https://www.smore.com/n/cxd13h" target="_blank"><span><span>click here for translation</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Dear Families,</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>With </span><span>March Break </span><span>almost upon</span><span> us, </span><span>I want to provide you with </span><span>information</span><span> about </span><span>four</span><span> important </span><span>items:</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Survey</span><span>: 2024-2025 School Year Budget&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is seeking feedback on the development of its 2024-2025 budget.</span><span><span>&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;</span><span><br> </span><span><span>LDSB’s students, families, staff, and community partners are invited to </span><span>participate</span><span> in a brief survey to </span><span>identify</span><span> priorities for the cost-effective, successful, and </span><span>equitable</span><span> use of LDSB’s finite financial resources.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>This information will </span><span>assist</span><span> the Board of Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2024-2025. All information collected will be summarized and reviewed at the Budget Committee meeting on April 17, 2024.</span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span> </span><span><span>The survey will be open </span><span>until </span><span>Thursday, </span><span>March 28, 2024</span><span>,</span><span> at 4:00 p.m</span><span>. The survey is voluntary and anonymous. All respondents will remain confidential. To </span><span>participate</span><span> in the survey, please </span><span>click </span></span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07fKtwRC8NbasUm" target="_blank"><span><span>this </span><span>Budget Survey </span><span>link</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Survey: </span><span>Interest in </span><span>Virtual School</span><span> for 2024-2025 School Year</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>The purpose of this survey is to gather information from families who are interested in enrolling their student(s) in virtual school next year. This information will support early planning for the 2024-2025 school year.&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Please note that this survey form is not for online registration. Please complete one survey for each student. This form is only intended for families who are interested in enrolling their student in virtual school next year (2024-2025). </span><span>Families who are already enrolled in virtual school would have previously received direct communication inquiring about their intentions for 2024-2025</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>The survey </span><span>remains</span><span> open until Monday, March 18, 2024, at 4:00 p.m.</span><span>&nbsp;There will be an optional link at the end of this survey to open a new survey for an </span><span>additional</span><span> student.</span><span> To </span><span>participate</span><span> in the survey, please click </span></span><a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07oZkNBnFQ11h3g" target="_blank"><span><span>this </span><span>Virtual School Survey</span><span> link</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Elementary Special Education Support Model</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>As a result of the </span><span>2023 </span><span>LDSB</span><span> Special Education Review</span><span> </span><span>which received thousands of responses from students and families, the LDSB is moving forward with a restructuring of elementary special </span><span>education services. This updated model will </span><span>reallocate staffing support from self-contained programs and itinerant support to school-based support where it is needed most</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>To find out more about the positive impact</span><span>s</span><span> of the new delivery model, </span><span>visit the </span></span><a href="/news/what_s_new/elementary_special_education_support_model" target="_blank"><span><span>Elementary </span><span>Special</span><span> Education Support Model page</span></span></a><span><span> on the LDSB website</span><span>.</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Reminder: KFL&amp;A Public Health Notice – Meningococcal Disease Type B</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>Last week, you received </span><span>communications </span><span>from </span><span>KFL&amp;A Public Health </span><span>regarding</span><span> an increase in cases of invasive meningococcal disease type B in our community.</span><span> </span><span>This is a reminder to review the communication if you have not already. </span><span>Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening. While this infection </span><span>remains</span><span> </span><span>relatively rare</span><span>, it can progress rapidly and have severe consequences if not treated promptly.&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>To learn more about invasive meningococcal disease and available vaccines, speak with a health care provider or visit </span><a href="http://caringforkids.cps.ca/" target="_blank"><span><span>caringforkids.cps.ca</span></span></a><span> or </span><a href="http://kflaph.ca/IMD" target="_blank"><span><span>kflaph.ca/IMD</span></span></a><span>.</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span>I hope all students and families have an enjoyable March Break (March 11-15)</span><span>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span><span></span></span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Be safe and be well,&nbsp;</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span></span><span><span>&nbsp;</span> </span><span>Krishna Burra</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div> <div> <p><span>Director of Education</span><span>&nbsp;</span></p> </div>

<img src="/images/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153" srcset="/thumbnails/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153 450w, /images/eb42f06e-076d-540a-92a2-9515471545c6?fingerprint=ppb20251217015153 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span><span><strong>THIS SURVEY IS NOW CLOSED</strong>.<br> The purpose of this survey is to gather information from families who are interested in enrolling their student(s) in virtual school next year. This information will support early planning for the 2024-2025 school year.<br> <br> <a href="/board/l_d_s_b_virtual_school" target="_blank" title="LDSB Virtual School">LDSB Virtual School </a>option for September 2024 is primarily for students who learn best in the online environment, or require a virtual environment due to underlying medical conditions for themselves or their family members. <br> <br> Please note that this survey form is not for online registration. Please complete one survey for each student. This form is only intended for families who are interested&nbsp; in enrolling their student in virtual school next year (2024-2025). <br> <br> The survey remains open until 4 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2024.&nbsp; Please click this <a href="https://ldsb.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_07oZkNBnFQ11h3g" target="_blank" title="Link to Virtual School Survey 2024-2025">Intent to Enrol Virtual School Survey link.</a></span></span><br>

<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/081b44a0-d766-516b-8ea6-3252e0e33f90?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" alt="" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A Special Education Review was conducted between February 2023 and October 2023. Over 3,400 participants responded to the question: “What key supports and services are important for students with special education needs to experience success at school and reach their full potential?”  More than 4,000 individual thoughts were shared through the exchange, and participants rated 76,000 thoughts. Additionally, Educational Services staff met with small focus groups of students, parents/guardians, and staff to explore the data together. This extensive feedback was incredibly valuable, and we extend our deepest gratitude to the families and students for their participation in the review process.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This review aimed to identify the key supports and services critical for the success of students with special education needs by elevating the voices of students and families. Our goal was to use this data to inform and develop a model of support that is flexible, responsive, and tiered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The primary reasons for the restructuring include the following:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to provide equitable access to special education support and services within a students’ home school, and to leverage current supports to meet the needs of all students.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to minimize barriers to support and services such as diagnosis, identification, and geographic location.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to provide flexible and responsive support, programming, and access to resource spaces that adapt and respond to a student’s unique learning profile.&nbsp;</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As a result of these changes, elementary LDSB special education classrooms and itinerant support positions will not be continuing, and staff will be reallocated into schools. This restructuring will positively impact school-based support for students in Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8. This is inclusive of students who attend Intermediate school sites. Choices @ 7 - Challenge, LEAP, ATLAS and ECPP programs are not impacted. Over the next few months, our school and district teams will continue to support students and families with this transition. There are no current changes to the secondary special education service delivery model.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This change in the elementary service delivery model does not reflect any cost savings and in fact, this model has an overall staff increase. Through this restructuring, we will reallocate 29 special education teacher positions to schools across the district, in addition to educational assistants, literacy intervention, mental health and clinical supports.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">An overview of the new elementary service delivery model is included in the </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/971bc162-7242-5f47-a382-0ed857aa6706/02_28_2024_Regular_Board_Meeting_Agenda_February_28_2024.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Administrative Report: Elementary Special Education Support Model </span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">presented to Trustees at the February 28, 2024, Board Meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our school and district teams will continue to support students within a fully inclusive learning environment in every Limestone school.&nbsp;</span></p>

<img src="/images/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751" srcset="/thumbnails/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 450w, /images/523c4daa-e952-56f3-b743-7e772f755cff?fingerprint=ppb20251217013751 600w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 450px, 600px"><span>Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees.</span><br><br><span>These briefs do not serve as the official record of the meeting. Please refer to Board minutes which are approved at the next regular meeting. Community members are also invited to follow along during live tweets of regular Board meetings using the hashtag #LDSBmtg.</span><br><br><iframe src="https://www.smore.com/n/x1z6q?embed=1" title="Boardroom Briefs"></iframe>